Trotters are harnessing the market for gambling

Harness racing in Sweden is one of only a handful of sports in Europe to have persevered through the pandemic and the country’s No 1 horse driver has never been in more demand.

The fact that Rikard Skoglund and his colleagues have been able to carry on trotting is good news for the 40,000 equestrian workers in Sweden as well as betting firms and gamblers around the world.

“Our prize money comes from betting money. So now the whole world is betting on Swedish harness racing, it’s a huge opportunity for us,” said Skoglund.

“It’s been really fun to show the world our amazing harness racing.

“I am more worried when I go into town or to a shop,” Skoglund said. “If you go to the supermarket, it is much more dangerous than driving horses.”

No spectators are allowed, with even owners of horses prevented from being at the track for races which are nationally televised. Trainers and jockeys are recommended to change clothes in their car, and social distancing is advised.

Maria Croon, CEO of Swedish Trotting, said: “Of course it affects us that we can’t have the public in to watch, but it’s more important for us to have the core business (operating).

“We aren’t trying to capitalize, just to continue with as less effects as possible.”

Croon said she wasn’t aware of any reported virus cases in Swedish racing.

The Swedish market has proved to be vital for the multibillion-dollar sports gambling industry, especially in Europe.

Hans Lord Skarploth, chief executive of betting firm ATG, which specialises in horse racing in Sweden, said that international gambling on Swedish races is up around 600 per cent since the middle of March.

“This is, of course, good for ATG revenues but even more important for the horse industries,” Skarploth said.

“Thanks to Swedish horse racing, many of these companies still could have some earnings.”